Preview: Newcastle Jets v Adelaide United

This match looms as a classic six-pointer where a win will not only greatly enhance the chances of a finals berth, but also dent one of their direct rivals’ ambitions.

Few would have predicted this match being pivotal in the race for semi-finals, but that is exactly how it has played out.

Both sides have enjoyed unexpectedly impressive campaigns and that just adds to the intrigue of this contest.

If form is any gauge then Newcastle are warm favourites. They lost to runaway leaders Melbourne City last weekend, but they became the first team to concede just a single goal against the league’s form team.

The Jets are also undefeated against the Lady Reds in their past four outings, including a 1-1 draw in Adelaide last month.

Adelaide, for their part, have failed to collect three points across five matches dating all the way to round four. Defeat here would leave them at least three points from the semi-finals with just three rounds remaining.

While Adelaide are aiming for the first-ever finals tickets, the Jets are seeking to end a seven-year drought from the play-offs having failed to achieve those lofty heights since season one.